Telehealth: a rapidly developing service delivery model for occupational therapy

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Occupational Therapy

Background:

• Technological advancements, particularly in information and communication technologies (ICT), have significantly impacted occupational therapy practice over the last decade.
• Changes in healthcare policy have also influenced the integration of new service delivery models within occupational therapy.
• Telehealth has emerged as a key innovation, allowing occupational therapy services to be provided across geographical distances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence supporting the use of telehealth in occupational therapy.
• To discuss critical policy considerations relevant to the implementation and expansion of telehealth services in occupational therapy.
• To offer practical resources to assist occupational therapy practitioners in the ethical and effective utilization of telehealth.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on telehealth in occupational therapy.
• Analysis of current healthcare policy landscape impacting telehealth adoption.
• Compilation of resources and best practices for ethical telehealth implementation.

Main Results:

• Evidence supports the efficacy and feasibility of telehealth for delivering various occupational therapy interventions.
• Key policy factors, including reimbursement and licensure, significantly influence telehealth accessibility and practice.
• Ethical considerations are paramount for ensuring quality care and client safety in remote occupational therapy settings.

Conclusions:

• Telehealth represents a viable and growing modality for occupational therapy service delivery, expanding access to care.
• Navigating policy and ethical guidelines is essential for successful and sustainable telehealth integration in occupational therapy.
• Practitioners require ongoing education and resources to confidently and competently provide occupational therapy via telehealth.